Why can’t eggs be microwaved?

But why?! Legend has it (or from the wise words of our mums), that the microwave will explode if we try to microwave an egg in it. Just how true is that? Let’s find out.

What happens when I microwave an egg?

This happens. Not that bad huh? All you have to do is just 10 minutes of clean up – your home is safe and sound! Even then, please do not try this at home because a damaged microwave equals to an angry mum (psst, try it at the office or where no one would know you did it 😉

Why do whole eggs explode?

The microwave heats food up by channelling energy to the water in food. For eggs, steam is built up in the egg yolk and expands. After a couple of seconds, the pressure becomes too much for the shell to handle and explodes.

However, even without the shell, it’s still a bad idea to microwave uncooked or hard boiled eggs as it is likely to splatter.

How do I microwave eggs safely?

Picture credits: http://www.wikihow.com/Microwave-an-Egg

Yes, it is possible, but you’ll have to take precautions. To prevent steam from escaping and causing messy egg splatters, cover the egg fully with a paper towel. There are different methods to cooking eggs in the microwave.

Hard boiled eggs: Place the egg in hot water and cover with a plate on 50% power. There is a slight chance the egg could explode so watch carefully.

Sunny side up: Crack eggs onto a plate and gently prick the yolk with a toothpick/knife. Microwave for about 40 seconds

Scrambled eggs: Crack two eggs and pour some milk in the egg mixture. Microwave for 45 seconds, remove, stir, and microwave again.

*Disclaimer: Microwaved eggs aren’t going to taste very good… the good old classic method is still the best!